There are decisive moments in the history of a nation where the courage to act, just like the choice to remain still, can determine the future of several generations. Haiti now finds itself at one of those turning points. The decisions we make now, or those we continue to postpone, will have profound consequences on the future of our country and the lives of millions of Haitians.
Our country is suffering. Families have abandoned their homes, children are growing up in fear, entrepreneurs see the fruits of a lifetime of work disappear. Thousands of young people, who should be dreaming of building their future at home, are only thinking about leaving. Behind the statistics and political speeches, there are faces, stories, and shattered lives.
And yet, amid this tragedy, a possibility for change exists.
The international attention on the Haitian crisis, regional initiatives, and the need to find a political and security solution create a situation we must take seriously. This context guarantees nothing. But it offers us a chance to regain initiative, as long as we know what we want and have the courage to act.
Now or never.
It Is Time to Form a Government Capable of Action
I want to make a clear appeal to political leaders, the active forces of the nation, and particularly to those who today bear the responsibility of leading the affairs of state: it is urgent to engage in sincere and constructive dialogue to form a credible, competent government capable of responding to the needs of the country.
Haiti can no longer afford to lose months in negotiations that lead nowhere. Every day of political uncertainty has consequences for the lives of our fellow citizens.
Forming a government should not become a new battle over the distribution of ministries. We have made this mistake too often. The country needs women and men who understand the gravity of the situation, who know the realities on the ground, and who are ready to work together, beyond their political affiliations.
This is not about asking everyone to abandon their convictions. It is about recognizing that certain responsibilities go beyond party interests and individual ambitions.
A government must have a precise mission, a realistic program, and results to present to the population. It must be able to progressively restore security, get the institutions back to work, support economic activity, and prepare for credible elections.
But above all, it must restore to Haitians a reason to believe that the state still exists to protect and serve them.
We do not need a government to occupy positions. We need a government to achieve a mission.
The World Is Watching Haiti, But What Are We Doing with This Attention?
The Haitian crisis today raises concerns that go far beyond our borders. Our international partners recognize the consequences of insecurity and instability for the whole region.
This attention can represent an important diplomatic and strategic opportunity.
However, we must avoid a fundamental mistake: believing that the solutions to our problems will come exclusively from outside.
Our partners can provide resources, expertise, and indispensable support. But they cannot define for us the country we want to build.
This is precisely why forming a strong government is so important. Haiti must be able to present a coherent national vision, advocate for its priorities, and negotiate with its partners in respect of its sovereignty.
Diplomacy should not be limited to soliciting aid. It should serve to obtain concrete commitments in the areas of security, economic cooperation, investment, and institutional strengthening.
For this, we need political leadership capable of making decisions and standing by them.
Security, the First Condition for the Return to Dignity
We can talk about development, investments, and elections. But what is the value of these ambitions when a mother cannot send her child to school without fearing for their safety? When a merchant has to abandon their business? When a family can no longer sleep peacefully in their home?
Security must be the first responsibility of the government.
We must strengthen the National Police of Haiti, support the judicial institutions, better coordinate international cooperation, and restore the authority of the state in territories where it has disappeared.
But we must also understand that lasting security is not built solely by force. It relies on functioning justice, respected institutions, an economy that offers opportunities, and a state that genuinely fights corruption and impunity.
The Haitian people are not asking for the impossible. They want to be able to live in their country, work, raise their children, and move freely within their own nation.
These are fundamental rights. They should never become privileges.
Politics Must Regain Its Meaning
I believe in political dialogue. I believe in the necessity of compromise when national interest requires it. But I also believe that dialogue loses its meaning when it becomes a way to delay decisions.
We must break out of the habit of multiplying meetings, statements, and agreements without any real change in the lives of the population.
Political leaders must talk to each other, find common ground, and take responsibility.
This requires courage. Sometimes, it means giving up a personal ambition, accepting a proposal from an opponent, or acknowledging that no political formation alone has all the answers.
I do not believe that Haiti needs a new confrontation among its leaders. It needs a common will to make the state function.
A serious political agreement must lead to decisions, the formation of a governmental team, and a transparent action plan.
Dialogue should not become an end in itself. It must allow the country to move forward.
We Still Have the Means to Succeed
Despite everything we are going through, I refuse to see Haiti as a country without a future.
I think of our teachers who continue to impart their knowledge under difficult conditions. Of our doctors and nurses who provide care despite a lack of resources. Of our entrepreneurs who refuse to close their doors. Of our farmers who continue to cultivate the land. Of this youth that is simply looking for an opportunity to prove themselves.
I also think of our diaspora, present in many professional sectors around the world, and who maintain a deep attachment to Haiti.
All these skills represent a national wealth. But they need reliable institutions, an economic vision, and a secure environment to fully contribute to the country's development.
Our challenge is therefore not only to emerge from the current crisis. It is to rebuild a state capable of functioning beyond changes in leadership and political alternations.
This requires seriousness, continuity, and a new way of exercising public responsibilities.
An Appeal for National Responsibility
I address all those who participate, directly or indirectly, in decisions regarding the future of Haiti.
We have debated enough about the seriousness of the crisis. We know what our compatriots are living through. We understand the consequences of insecurity, instability, and the weakening of our institutions.
It is now time to make decisions.
I call for the immediate opening of serious political discussions, with a specific goal: to quickly form a government capable of leading a coherent national action, in respect of the institutional framework and with public commitments.
This government must be judged by its results, not by the promises made during its formation.
I hope that everyone understands the magnitude of this responsibility. The choices made today will have consequences far beyond the political interests of the moment.
As an engaged Haitian in public life, I cannot accept the idea that we are condemned to watch our country deteriorate without attempting to change things.
I believe that we can still agree on the essentials. I believe that we can regain a sense of public service. And I believe above all that Haitians deserve better than this succession of crises that takes away their years, their opportunities, and sometimes their lives.
We do not need to agree on everything to start working together.
We simply need to accept that the future of Haiti matters more than our differences.
Now or Never
This historic moment imposes a responsibility that we can no longer defer.
International attention exists. Needs are known. Skills are available. What remains to be demonstrated is our collective will to make the necessary decisions.
The formation of a credible government must be the starting point for serious national action. It must respond to the urgent security needs, restore trust, and prepare for the return to normal democratic life.
I do not pretend that a new government will solve all of Haiti's problems overnight. But I am convinced that political paralysis will only exacerbate them.
We owe our children a country where they can grow up without fear, learn, work, and envision their future with confidence.
It is for them, for the displaced families, for those who continue to resist despite difficulties, and for all those who still hope, that we must act.
To those who today hold a share of responsibility for the country's future, I make this appeal: let us come to the table, find a responsible agreement, and form a government capable of governing.
History will remember less our disagreements than our ability, or incapacity, to act when the country needed it.
Haiti has already waited too long. Now or never.
